QB Ben Chappell appreciates scout team

By Shemar WoodsBy Shemar WoodsAugust 16, 2011

Quarterback Ben Chappell lined up at cornerback, safety and linebacker during the Washington Redskins’ walk-through on Monday evening. As an undrafted rookie, providing the first-team offense with a defensive alignment on the scout-team defense has not only benefited quarterbacks Rex Grossman and John Beck, but Chappell, too.

“I just jumped over there and said, ‘I’ll see it from the other side.’ It helps a lot with coverage,” said Chappell. “The coaches over there with us give techniques so you get an idea of the safety’s technique or the corner’s technique. It’s just a little something that you wouldn’t get if you were standing behind the play.”

Chappell, currently fourth on the Redskins depth chart, played college football at Indiana, where he threw for 3,295 yards and 24 touchdowns his senior year. He played in the Redskins’ final offensive series in last Friday’s preseason game but didn’t get a chance to attempt a pass. He hopes to see action in Friday’s game at Indianapolis.

Until he receives his shot on the field at quarterback, Chappell is pleased with his scout-team role, which helps him catch up to the NFL learning curve.

“Being a rookie, not having OTAs, there’s stuff that I missed out on,” Chappell said. “So I’m just trying to hound on [my technique and footwork], because that’s what I need to work on the most.”